Spring in Crestwood brings warmer temperatures, heavy rains, and melting snow from a long Chicagoland winter. That combination can put serious stress on your home’s plumbing system. Taking a little time now to inspect, clean, and test key components can help prevent flooded basements, sewer backups, and emergency repairs later in the year.
In our decades of experience, one common theme is homeowners in the Crestwood and south suburban area often deal with aging plumbing systems, hard water mineral buildup, and sump pumps that work overtime during spring storms. The tips below are designed specifically for local conditions and older Midwest homes.
Mr Plumbing has proudly served Crestwood and the Chicagoland area since 1972, and these spring plumbing maintenance tips are based on decades of hands-on local experience.
Inspect and Maintain Plumbing Fixtures
- Check faucets for drips or leaks: Even a slow drip wastes hundreds of gallons of water over time and often indicates worn washers or cartridges. Fixing small leaks early helps avoid fixture damage and higher water bills.
- Remove hard water mineral buildup: Chicago-area water contains minerals that can clog faucet aerators and shower heads. Unscrew them and soak overnight in white vinegar to restore proper flow.
- Cycle shutoff valves: Turn water supply valves under sinks and behind toilets on and off a few times. Valves that haven’t been used in years can seize up and fail when you need them most during an emergency.
Check Drains and Prevent Sewer Issues
- Use drain strainers: Hair, food particles, and debris are some of the most common causes of clogged drains. Simple strainers in sinks and showers help protect your drain lines.
- Protect floor drains: Basements in Crestwood often rely on floor drains during heavy rains. Pour a gallon of water into infrequently used drains to keep the trap full and block sewer odors.
- Address slow drains early: A slow floor drain may signal buildup or early sewer line issues. Snaking or professionally cleaning the drain now can help prevent basement flooding during spring storms.
Test Your Sump Pump Before Heavy Rains Hit
Spring rain is one of the biggest plumbing risks for Crestwood homeowners. Your sump pump is your first line of defense against basement flooding.
Test it by slowly pouring about five gallons of water into the sump pit. The pump should activate automatically and remove the water efficiently. Avoid overfilling the basin. In most systems, the pump should turn on when water reaches roughly 8 to 12 inches below the basement floor.
If the pump hesitates, runs continuously, or fails to turn on, it may need repair or replacement. Homes with finished basements or frequent water issues should also consider a battery backup sump pump.
Inspect Plumbing-Related Appliances
Washing Machine
Check hoses for cracks, bulges, or moisture at the connections. Rubber hoses older than 10 years are especially prone to bursting. Braided stainless steel hoses provide significantly better protection against sudden flooding.
Toilets
Inspect the base and tank for cracks or moisture. To check for silent leaks, add a few drops of food coloring to the tank and wait 30 minutes. If color appears in the bowl, the flapper or internal components need replacement.
If the handle must be held down to flush or the toilet continues running after use, worn tank parts are likely the cause.
Water Heaters
Set the temperature to no higher than 120°F to reduce scalding risk and improve energy efficiency. For tank-style water heaters, drain a few gallons to flush out sediment that can reduce heating performance and shorten the unit’s lifespan.
Tankless water heaters common in newer Crestwood homes should be flushed annually to remove mineral scale. Always follow manufacturer guidelines or have a licensed plumber perform this service.
Finally, make sure the area around your water heater and furnace is clear of flammable materials and clutter.
Why Spring Plumbing Maintenance Matters in Chicagoland
Older infrastructure, heavy spring rain, and freezing winter temperatures make preventative plumbing care especially important in the south suburbs. Addressing small issues now can help avoid emergency service calls, water damage, and costly repairs during peak storm season.
If you’d like a professional spring plumbing inspection or help with any of the items above, the licensed team at MR Plumbing is available with upfront pricing and 24/7 emergency service.
